mutual induction
- noun
- /ˈmjuːtʃuəl ɪnˈdʌkʃən/
- Specialized
- Transformers operate on the principle of mutual induction to transfer energy between circuits.
Examples
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Engineers must consider mutual induction when designing circuits placed close to each other.
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The phenomenon of mutual induction was first demonstrated by Michael Faraday in the 19th century.
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The principle of mutual induction is fundamental in electromagnetism.
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Can you explain how mutual induction works in transformers?
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Engineers must consider mutual induction when designing circuits placed close to each other.
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Transformers operate on the principle of mutual induction to transfer energy between circuits.
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The phenomenon of mutual induction was first demonstrated by Michael Faraday in the 19th century.
Synonyms
A current made when a magnetic field changes
Surface Forms
Morphology
The noun is directly compositional: 'mutual' signals a reciprocal relation between two parties and 'induction' denotes generation of electrical current by changing magnetic fields, so together they describe reciprocal induction between two circuits. Although the term is technical, its meaning follows straightforward combination of the constituents, so a learner who knows both words can infer the MWE's meaning.
Etymology
Mutual induction comes from mutual meaning 'each affecting the other' and induction meaning 'making electricity happen'. It gives the image of two loops or wires close together: when the electric flow in one changes, it makes electricity appear in the other, so the phrase means 'two nearby circuits creating electricity in each other when the current changes'.